“Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily in the wood, in the midst of Carmel: let them feed in Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.”
Shepherd your people with your staff, the flock of your inheritance, living alone in a forest amid a garden; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old—the people pray to God (or God addresses the future shepherd-king) asking for care and pasture like in ancient days. The image of the flock of God's inheritance emphasizes that the people are God's possession and responsibility. The vision of living alone in a forest amid a garden suggests security and protection in a place set apart and nurtured. The specific reference to Bashan and Gilead, historically rich pasture lands, expresses longing for abundance and security. The phrase 'as in the days of old' shows nostalgia for the secure, prosperous days of Israel's early monarchy. This verse expresses the people's yearning for restoration and reunion with God under protective leadership.
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